WATCH ABOVE: The language debate continues to be a hot topic on the South Shore, after a decorative flowerbed that spelled out “Greenfield Park” was bulldozed by the agglomeration of Longueuil prompting Sunday’s “plant-in.” Billy Shields reports.
GREENFIELD PARK – More than 100 residents came out to a “plant-in,” bringing flowers to Bellevue Street after a sign spelling the city’s name in flowers was destroyed.
The sign was a symbol of civic pride for residents, but an auto accident smashed it in March.
Opposition councillors say that rather than repair it, the agglomeration of Longueuil neglected the site and then razed the flowerbed altogether.
READ MORE: Political tensions heat up between Longueuil and Greenfield Park
For many at the plant-in the actions of the city are being viewed through the lens of language.
Recently Longueuil Mayor Caroline St-Hilaire made headlines when she barred English from being used in council.
READ MORE: Bill 101 supporters defend French-only at Longueuil council meetings
Opposition councillors immediately ascribed that as a motive for the flowerbed being destroyed. Greenfield Park is the only officially bilingual jurisdiction left in Longueuil.
It isn’t clear what will happen to the flowers after the plant-in ends. Opposition councillors worry that the city will send workers to clear them Monday.
“My guess is this’ll be gone by tomorrow,” said Wade Wilson, a borough councillor who participated in the event.
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